OBJECTIVE: Predictive validity is a fundamental consideration in evaluating the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), particularly for younger children. METHOD: The authors conducted four annual assessments of ADHD and functional impairment using multiple informants in 255 probands and matched comparison children who were 4-6 years old in wave 1. RESULTS: Nearly all children who met full criteria for ADHD in wave 1 met full criteria for ADHD over the next 3 years and continued to display marked functional impairment relative to comparison children, even when intelligence, co-occurring psychopathology, and demographic characteristics were controlled. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the validity of the DSM-IV diagnosis of ADHD in younger children by demonstrating that the symptoms and associated impairment are likely to persist well into elementary school.
OBJECTIVE: Predictive validity is a fundamental consideration in evaluating the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), particularly for younger children. METHOD: The authors conducted four annual assessments of ADHD and functional impairment using multiple informants in 255 probands and matched comparison children who were 4-6 years old in wave 1. RESULTS: Nearly all children who met full criteria for ADHD in wave 1 met full criteria for ADHD over the next 3 years and continued to display marked functional impairment relative to comparison children, even when intelligence, co-occurring psychopathology, and demographic characteristics were controlled. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the validity of the DSM-IV diagnosis of ADHD in younger children by demonstrating that the symptoms and associated impairment are likely to persist well into elementary school.
Authors: Andrea Chronis-Tuscano; Brooke S G Molina; William E Pelham; Brooks Applegate; Allison Dahlke; Meghan Overmyer; Benjamin B Lahey Journal: Arch Gen Psychiatry Date: 2010-10
Authors: Melissa L Danielson; Susanna N Visser; Mary Margaret Gleason; Georgina Peacock; Angelika H Claussen; Stephen J Blumberg Journal: J Dev Behav Pediatr Date: 2017-09 Impact factor: 2.225